Influence of Elearning on Students Performance in Higher Learning Institutions: A Case Study of United States International University-Africa

Abstract:

The main objective of this research was to examine the Influence of eLearning on students’ performance in higher learning institutions. The study was based on the following research questions; to what extent has E-Library influenced student mid semester exams at United Stated International University Africa; how has e-learning motivated students learning at United Stated International University; to what extent has computer-based learning influenced students completion rate at United States International University Africa.
The study used a descriptive survey research design to find characteristics of the research study and examines the relationship between the research valuable’s and student’s performance. The target population for this research was 920 students who are enrolled for graduate programs in the Chandaria School of Business at United Stated International University Africa. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of students from the target population. The sample size was 279. The research data collection method that was used by this study focused on primary data collection method using questionnaires. The study had 279 questionnaires which were distributed for analysis based on the respondent’s feedback. This analysis used descriptive methods such as mean, frequency, standard deviation, percentages and tables to analyze data.
The study found that on average 53% of students engage with e-library as they prepare for their mid semester exams as they use eBooks for exam preparation. The question relating to how students are comfortable with using eLearning had a mean of 3.42 and they further indicated that e-repository is helpful in improving their academic performance. The study also found that 87% of students indicated that eLearning has motivated students learning as the respondents indicated that they find the university learning technology to be effective. Descriptive statistics further indicate a mean of 3.56 on virtual learning environment in relation to students motivate to learn. Findings further indicated that distance learning can improve performance and completion of course work and this was supported by a mean of 3.18.
The respondents demonstrated that e-library does not necessarily influence their mid semester exams however it aids in preparation and compiling of assignments. Students at USIU-A are exposed to several e-learning platforms that influence their motivation to learn. Some student indicated that they believe the university is at its peak of technology and is a trend setter for other Kenyan higher institutions of learning. Students in higher institutions of learning have reaped considerable benefits from computer-based learning and this has had a significant impact on their ability to complete their degree programs.
The study recommends that more effort should be placed on the student’s ability to recognize the importance of eBooks for exam preparation and not just preparation based on Blackboard notes. Great emphasis should be placed on the introduction of simulations like Capsim and X-culture for finance, human resource and global social entrepreneurship concentration classes. The university currently offers minimum computer-based learning classes, and this can be improved by introducing distance learning for some of the courses that mostly attract students who live in distant locations. This would also reduce the student dropout rate especially at master’s level where the student finds it difficult to balance work, studying, family and business travel.
Most studies on e-learning and student performance need to be done beyond academic level but also inculcate how e-learning affects their performance in the workplace. Students may not reflect sufficient use of e-learning platforms when there is lack of awareness on how e-learning will benefit them beyond the classroom. Studies done on this may be beneficial in encouraging students to engage with e-learning more frequently. Most studies on e-learning and student performance need to be done beyond academic level but also inculcate how e-learning affects their performance in the workplace.

Description:

A Research Project Report Submitted to the Chandaria School of Business in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirement for the Degree of Masters in Business Administration (MBA)